The camera industry is feeling the effects of the coronavirus now more than ever.
According to Canon Rumors, Canon’s is facing significant shortages in the production of its two new mirrorless cameras, the EOS R5 and EOS R6.
These two mirrorless models are currently under development and were slated to launch this summer, but the appearance of coronavirus has seen the disruption of Canon’s supply chains and has brought production capacity on the cameras down to just 25%.
Canon is considering two ways of addressing these issues:
First, the company may decide to halt the release of the EOS R5 and EOS R6 until the fall, when production should be back at full capacity. This would allow for strong, albeit late, product launches.
Second, Canon may go ahead with the launch of both cameras. But Canon would be moving forward without the production numbers necessary to satisfy all customers, and so we would likely see shortages until the coronavirus pandemic has passed.
Obviously, neither of these measures is ideal. Both the EOS R5 and R6 have generated great excitement among Canon fans, and among the camera industry at large. Any delays or shortages will be met with frustration on all sides, especially by those who have been holding out for a true professional mirrorless model from Canon.
Note that the EOS R5 offers a number of features that were missing from Canon’s first two distinct full-frame mirrorless bodies, the EOS R and RP. These include dual card slots (essential for wedding photographers, photojournalists, and sports photographers, all who require redundancy in their work), as well as in-body image stabilization, which will debut in both the EOS R5 and EOS R6. The EOS R5 will also address concerns that videographers had with the EOS R; the R5 will reportedly offer true 8K video that utilizes the full width of the sensor.
And while Canon has not confirmed a megapixel count for the R5, it has been consistently rumored to feature a 45 MP sensor, which could position the R5 as a high-powered alternative to megapixel monsters such as the Nikon Z7 and the Panasonic S1R.
Canon has remained virtually silent regarding the EOS R6. But rumors suggest that the camera will feature a 20 MP sensor, in-body image stabilization, 4K/60p video, and 12/20 frames-per-second shooting with mechanical and electronic shutters, respectively. It may cater to hobbyists looking for a first full-frame mirrorless body, but who want true mirrorless-type features such as IBIS.
Here’s the bottom line:
The release of these two full-frame mirrorless cameras may well be a turning point for Canon. Whether it comes sooner or later is immaterial, though it will certainly be frustrating for anyone looking to purchase these cameras.
So keep an eye out for more information regarding both of these mirrorless bodies.
Are you looking to buy either the EOS R5 or the R6? Which camera excites you more? Share your thoughts in the comments!
